Keir Starmer criticizes Elon Musk for spreading falsehoods about child safety issues
Epsom: Keir Starmer has come out swinging against Elon Musk, saying the online chatter about child sexual exploitation is riddled with lies. He pointed out that some politicians are just trying to grab attention by jumping on this serious issue.
Starmer was responding to Musk’s social media posts, which he felt crossed a line. He mentioned that threats against safeguarding minister Jess Phillips and others are a direct result of the “poison of the far right.”
He also dismissed calls for another review of the Oldham rape gang cases, insisting that the situation is “utterly sickening” and needs action, not more discussions.
Musk had suggested that Phillips should be imprisoned for not pushing for a public inquiry into child sexual exploitation in Oldham, calling her a “rape genocide apologist.” Starmer was at Epsom hospital to launch NHS reforms when he was asked about Musk’s comments.
Starmer expressed concern about the Conservative party’s direction under Kemi Badenoch, especially since they didn’t condemn Musk’s remarks about Phillips.
He stated, “Those spreading lies and misinformation aren’t interested in victims; they’re just looking out for themselves.” He criticized those who support Tommy Robinson, saying they’re not about justice but rather about stirring up trouble.
Starmer stood firmly behind Phillips, saying she’s done far more for victims than her critics ever will. He noted that the far right’s intimidation tactics are nothing new and often get amplified by the media.
He emphasized that Phillips doesn’t need anyone to defend her, but when threats arise from the far right, it’s a serious issue that can’t be ignored.
Starmer also defended his record as director of public prosecutions, which has been questioned in the ongoing debate. He acknowledged that many victims have been let down over the years and that he took action to address this during his tenure.
He mentioned reopening closed cases and leading the first major prosecution of an Asian grooming gang in Rochdale. He wanted to challenge the myths that prevented victims from being heard.
Starmer insisted that his record is clear and that he has called for mandatory reporting of child sexual abuse, something he claims the Tories have ignored.
Musk, on his platform X, had accused Starmer of failing to act against the notorious sex offender Jimmy Savile during his time as director of public prosecutions.
